Latest reviews

Alan Foxworthy reviewed: Bladesmithing Experience Day

"This course was very kindly given to me as a Father's Day gift. Being a perfectionist I must admit I was a little sceptical about what I was going to come away with, as I have never done anything like this before! I could envisage me pounding a lump of metal within an inch of its life, and people saying "nice ....what is it"? How wrong was I .... Graham and David were awesome! Every step was clearly explained, demonstrated and overseen plus any questions were Swifty answered. During the day, all refreshments were provided, as was the lovely dinner - there was plenty of time for breaks whenever you needed or wanted one. I would highly recommend this course to anybody who has any interest in knives, forging or crafts ..... You come away with a real sense of achievement! I for one will be going back again! Thanks guys, talk soon."

Sam Wildridge reviewed: Blacksmith Experience Day - Anvil Forge

"Had an absolutely amazing day with the guys at Anvil Forge!!! Mark, Spencer and Steve were fantastic teachers. Course is taught at really good pace, moving quick enough that its interesting throughout but not so fast that you cant keep up.. would strongly reccomend to anyone thinking of giving this a go to get on z course and do it.... Already planning on going back for more! Thanks"

Anvil Forge responded:

"Hi Sam I am really pleased the guys looked after you today and that you had a great time. I would have loved to stayed for the day but had family commitments so couldn't be there but knew you would be in good hands. You are welcome back anytime. best wishes John"

Debbie Twell reviewed: Stained glass weekly classes in Sheffield (South Yorkshire)

"As a 'newbie' to Stained Glass, I began working with Martin just 6 months ago, however I have been delighted with Martin's teaching, encouragement and support throughout....... and am now most definitely hooked on Leaded Glass and Tiffany Glass art. I thoroughly recommend Martin as a tutor and his well equipped workshop at Abbeydale. When you start you will be challenged by this addictive medium, but Martins teaching and enthusiasm will soon get you over any frustrations and very quickly you will have made brilliant pieces of glass art with a fantastic feeling of achievement. Everybody who attends the workshops is really friendly and happy to share, and its great being surrounded by amazing ideas. Looking forward to returning in September!"

Evelyn Brown reviewed: Introduction to candle-making as a business

"I was blessed that I was given a voucher as a Christmas present and was able to book my day with Jo when it was suitable for me. I thoroughly enjoyed my day making candles under Jo's supervision, the class was small so there was a very relaxed atmosphere and the lunch was excellent and I will be visiting again. I would recommend this course 10/10"

M Francis reviewed: Craft classes for adults - introduction to mixed media art journaling

"Lovely atmosphere, like minded people learning new skills. Corinne was so helpful, knowledgeable and patient. The crafts were new to me but she made them easy to do. Enjoyed each evening. Sad it’s finished for the holidays. Can’t wait for the next course."

Alastair Munro reviewed: Firebird Forge Blacksmithing School

"We gave a day's blacksmithing to our son-in-law as a birthday present. When it had to be rearranged due to heavy snow early in the year, my wife and I asked if we might attend as well. Mort agreed and we had a great day on a blisteringly hot Friday in July. My wife and our son-in-law had clear ideas on what to make and Mort enthusiastically sketched up the drawings into template size. Thanks to Mort's clear and positive coaching/teaching, they both produced a piece of work to be proud of. Despite my lack of skill, Mort encouraged me (and corrected my many errors!) so that I too had something to take home. The day over-ran, but Mort made it clear that we WOULD finish our works of art no matter what! A great day with a real enthusiast and artist for a teacher. Look out, Mort, we may book another day with you. Thank you so much."

John Siddall reviewed: Glass Fusing with Enamels - Two Day Course

"It's hard to add anything further to the glowing accounts from previous course attenders. We had a great time, Steve and Hannah made us so welcome and the technical assistance from Steve was first class. He is such a talent and generous in sharing his skill and artistry. Would love to do more!"

Alastair Barclay reviewed: French Polishing & Woodcare - Beginners Course - 1 Day

"I found the course held at Ardington interesting and rewarding. Although it was only one day I came away with a good insight into various techniques which I hope to build on in the future."

Lucy Williams reviewed: French Polishing & Woodcare - Beginners Course - 1 Day

"I recently attended a French Polishing course run by Ollie and it was by far the best and most informative course I have been on. I was given one to one tuition which meant that I learnt in one day what probably would have taken a week in a full class. Ollie tailored the course specifically for the type of furniture I wanted to work with, so instead of learning lots of things that weren't necessary, it was all relevant to me. Ollie was patient and very knowledgeable and encouraged me to ask questions if something wasn't clear. It was hugely practical and I have gone on to use what I learnt in this course on a daily basis as I now restore and sell furniture. I am so happy that I chose this course from all the many others that are out there."

Denise Goode reviewed: French Polishing & Woodcare - Beginners Course - 1 Day

"I recently attended a two day, Renovation & French polishing course with Ollie. He took the time before the course to find out what I wanted to get out of the time and I brought along two good, mid-century pieces of furniture that looked ‘wrecked’. Ollie is a brilliant tutor, he really listens, explains thoroughly, demonstrates and then encourages you to try it out. I couldn’t have enjoyed the days more! I got everything I wanted out of the course (and more) and have already started putting my new found skills to use. And as far as the ‘wrecked’ furniture is concerned I could not believe how they were transformed. Thank you Ollie for such a good course and looking forward to the next one."

Christina Pinel reviewed: Resist Felting - A Felt sampling Day: Cracked Mud, Nuno Resists & Felt Trapunto

"A great day of felting led by an excellent tutor. Workshop well organised with plenty of resources and materials so that students could learn new skills and complete three different wet felt samples."

Emma Jackson (Silversoles - Felted Textiles) responded:

"Dear Christina Many thanks for your review - I hope you are enjoying using your new felting skills. Best wishes Emma"

Ros reviewed: Hand-Spinning & Natural Dyeing Retreat, Highlands, Scotland

"Highly recommended whether you are a beginner in fibre crafts or already experienced. All the activities were well organised and fascinating, with brilliant end products for the participants to share. Most importantly, Rosie organised it really well and took everyone's needs into consideration – nothing was too much trouble for her. Accommodation in the Old Stables was excellent and very comfortable. Rosie worked hard all day and all evening, not just organising the activities, but also cooking wonderful wholesome, mainly organic meals, including home-made bread every day."

Annette Booth reviewed: Upholstery and soft furnishings 2 day course

"I have been going to evening classes with Angie for a few years now and absolutely love them. They are fun, creative and allow me to escape for a few hours each week I have learnt so much, upholstery, curtain and blind making, loose covers etc etc Thank you Angie, you are a star ⭐️"

Caryn Paladina reviewed: French Polishing & Woodcare - Beginners Course - 1 Day

"The two day course run by Ollie which I recently attended was tremendously enjoyable and informative. It was very well planned and executed and we all benefited from a lot of patient individual attention, with everything being carefully explained and demonstrated. Can't recommend Ollie highly enough and I'm very much looking forward to my next furniture renovation course."

O Harley reviewed: Contemporary Furniture Refinishing & Upcycling with Woodcare - 1 Day Beginners

"I spent two very interesting and informative days with Ollie for a French polishing workshop. He is very patient and the atmosphere is both relaxed and industrious. He was very generous with his time and his knowledge, and I have contacted him since to ask his advice. Ollie clearly loves what he does and I felt lucky to be learning so much from him. I am sure I shall return to learn more."

Julie Sarahs reviewed: Contemporary Furniture Refinishing & Upcycling with Woodcare - 1 Day Beginners

"French polishing & wood care course. I took my own piece of furniture to work on. Felt very welcome & comfortable in Ollie's workshop. We worked way over the planned times to which I am very grateful. Ollie is very patient, generous with his knowledge & time. I have learnt loads, have a shopping list of tools & materials I need. Have workshop envy!!!!!"

Martin Stanhope reviewed: Contemporary Furniture Refinishing & Upcycling with Woodcare - 1 Day Beginners

"This course is a superb introduction into woodcare and furniture upcycling. Ollie will show you how to take a piece of furniture that's very much an 'ugly duckling' and turn it into a swan!"

Vickie Whitelaw reviewed: Wire wrap ring making workshop at Sheila Kerr Jewellery, Irvine, Ayrshire

"We had a lovely time for our first wedding anniversary doing our wire ring wrapping. Sheila is clearly very talented not just as a jewellery maker but also as a teacher. I have received so many compliments on the ring i made which makes it even more special."

Sheila Kerr Jewellery responded:

"Hi Thank you for taking the time to review my workshop. It was really enjoyable showing you both how to create the ring and particularly as it was your first wedding anniversary. I’m also very pleased that you are wearing your ring. Thanks again. Regards Sheila"

Ingrid keary reviewed: French Polishing & Woodcare - Beginners Course - 1 Day

"Loved the style and pace that Ollie brings to his course. He brings a wealth of knowledge and guides you through to create a beautiful finished piece. Highly recommended"

Natural Dyeing and Spinning Retreat reviewed: Hand-Spinning & Natural Dyeing Retreat, Highlands, Scotland

"This was an awesome natural wool retreat! From the foraging for plants to use for dyes, to dyeing over fires, to Eco printing on silk, to spinning, it was the most fun fiber learning experience ever. Everything was accomplished at a seamless and easy pace. The accommodations in the refurbished "Old Stables" (in the rural pastoral countryside) were comfortable, spacious, and homelike. It was next to a bird sanctuary and offered lots of places to walk. The accommodations provided for both privacy and a place for the group to visit, eat meals, and get to know each other. The meals were delicious and nutritious. Loved the day of hiking in Glen Affric too. Rosie is an amazing facilitator, instructor, and cook who pulls everything together with ease!"

Katie Smith reviewed: Contemporary Furniture Refinishing & Upcycling with Woodcare - 1 Day Beginners

"Ollie is passionate about wood. His two day course was packed full of detailed information and tips to up cycle old furniture. The take away contact and hints sheets were particularly useful after the event as there are so many skills to take on board over two days. His kind, calm, unassuming manner makes you feel less of a novice from the start. He takes time to talk through your ideas and will demonstrate different techniques whilst your working piece is drying. He has exacting skills, and enjoys modern design as well as treasuring the history of cherished furniture. I would willingly spend time under his tutorage again as his knowledge is vast and his stress free way of working suited me well. Thank you."

Janet McNeill reviewed: French Polishing & Woodcare - Beginners Course - 1 Day

"I thoroughly enjoyed the two day French polishing course. Ollie is a perfectionist, and an excellent and very patient tutor. At every stage Ollie explained what needed to be done, showed how to do it, and then encouraged me to do it myself to a high standard. I am now the proud owner of two beautiful inherited antique chests of drawers, rather than just neglected heirlooms!"

Tim Matthews reviewed: Two person 'Have a Bash' at Blacksmithing course in Shropshire

"Very much enjoyed the day. It was a great introduction to blacksmithing. Jake familiarised me with the key equipment that I’d be using and gave a clear demonstration of how to make various items. Jake articulated every step of the process which helped me thoroughly understand the procedure of producing each piece. The workshop is great, it’s authentic. There’s no computers, no air conditioning; just metal, fire and dripping sweat . An exceptional day and would recommend to anyone who is looking for an good personal introduction to blacksmithing. Many thanks Jake."

Lampshade Making reviewed: Fabric printing & lampshade making workshop

"Ria is a very patient and knowledgeable teacher. We both came away with lampshades we are going to use - mine is going to be a Wedding present for someone and I'm really happy with the result. The setting is lovely and we also enjoyed lunch from the cafe. I've recommended to a friend already! Ria gives enough input so that you get a fantastic results but still feel that you designed and made it - a perfect balance!"

Vinny Cain reviewed: Intermediate woodworking course

"I knew I was going to enjoy this course . What I didn't know was how much I would enjoy it. Ciarán seemed to have time for everybody and has the patience of a saint. Lunchtime came round too quickly and so did finishing time each day because I was so engrossed and enjoying it. I can't recommend Ciarán and this course too much it is excellent. Thanks Ciarán."